Frequently Asked Questions
The term somatic education was coined by Thomas Hanna. It refers to a group of modalities that use sensory motor education to improve overall functioning. Somatic education enhances an individual’s soma, the experience of body, mind and environment. It uses this enhanced awareness to change muscular patterns and retrain the brain, improving functioning and wellbeing.
Everyone! The Feldenkrais Method™ is suitable for all abilities.
We work with anyone in Canada, the U.S. or U.S. territories with a stable internet connection.
Your first appointment is a 15 minute alignment appointment. This is a chance for us to get to know each other a little better and decide if working together will be a good fit. We will discuss what the Feldenkrais Method® is, what to expect during a session and what you are hoping to gain from Feldenkrais® lessons. You will have an opportunity to ask any questions that you have.
Your second appointment is a 60-75 minute roadmap appointment. Before booking you will be asked to complete a short intake form. We will begin this appointment with an in depth discussion of your concerns and goals. This will be followed by a verbally guided movement lesson.
Lesson are typically done laying down, sitting or standing. You will be verbally guided through a series of slow, gentle movements and asked to pay attention to what you sense and feel as you do them.
Your follow up appointments are 45-60 minutes long and are similar to roadmap appointments. They will begin with a check-in and be followed by a movement lesson.
If you have any accessibility needs you would like us to be aware of please contact us before your appointment.
You can check out our free audio programs on this page to get a better sense of what guided movement lessons are like.
You will need a stable internet connection, a functioning webcam and a quiet place where you can comfortably lay on the floor with at least an arms length of space around you. You may want to choose a carpeted area or lay on a folded blanket or mat. If you are unable to lay down you can use a chair with a firm, flat seat. Your webcam will need to be positioned so your whole body is in the frame. There will be time at the beginning of your appointment for camera set up.
Wear clothes that are comfortable to move in. If possible, please refrain from wearing black or yellow clothing. This makes it easier for your practitioner to guide you through the movements. You may be asked to remove your shoes, belt and glasses before beginning a class.
Awareness Through Movement® classes are group Feldenkrais® lessons. Classes focus on broad functional themes such as reaching, turning, walking or improving your mood.
Lessons are verbally guided and often done laying down, sitting in a chair or in a standing position. If you find any of these positions uncomfortable, most lessons can be adapted to fit your needs. Movements are designed to be done slowly and in a often in small range of motion. Movements should not cause any additional discomfort or pain.
Each class will begin with a short introduction. Your teacher will go over how to do the lesson. During the lesson your teacher will guide you through a series of movements. There will be time at the end of the class to ask questions or share your experience of the lesson if you would like.
You may chose to have your camera on or off during the lesson. We encourage you to keep your camera on if you are comfortable doing so. This helps your teacher better guide you.
If you have any accessibility needs you would like us to be aware of please contact us before your appointment.
You can check out our free audio programs on this page to get a better sense of what guided movement lessons are like.
You will need a stable internet connection, a functioning webcam and a quiet place where you can comfortably lay on the floor with at least an arms length of space around you. You may want to choose a carpeted area or lay on a folded blanket or mat. If it is uncomfortable for you to lie on the floor, lessons can be done in a bed without a pillow. If you are unable to lay down you can use a chair with a firm, flat seat and no arm rests.
Wear clothes that are comfortable to move in. If possible, please refrain from wearing black or yellow clothing. This makes it easier for your practitioner to guide you through the movements. Remove shoes, belts and glasses before beginning a class.
We encourage students to turn their cameras on if they are comfortable doing so. This helps our teacher to assist students and clarify directions as necessary.
If you have any accessibility needs you would like us to be aware of please contact us before the day of your class.
We accept payments made via credit card, PayPal and e-Transfer. To pay by e-Transfer, select the "manual payment" option at checkout. E-Transfers can be sent to billing@newwingssomatics.com.
Most insurance companies do not currently provide coverage for Feldenkrais® sessions. All of our services are offered on a sliding scale in an effort to make them more accessible. If price is a barrier, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
If you need to cancel your appointment please email scheduling@newwingssomaticscom. Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours notice will not be refunded. Payment is due before your appointment.
We prioritize 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, but allies are welcome too! We ask that only students who identify 2SLGBTQIA+ or questioning register for our 2SLGBTQIA+ specific classes.